Kamsack Times 2022-12-22

Funding approved for construction of 23-bed health care facility at Keeseekoose

Construction of a new 23-bed health care facility is to begin at Keeseekoose First Nation in April.

With funding now confirmed, the Saulteaux Pelly Agency Health Alliance’s $30 million proposal to construct a multipurpose health facility can now move forward to the tendering phase, said a release from Indigenous Services Canada. In a recent meeting with The Key, Keeseekoose, and Cote First Nations leaders, Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services, shared the good news.

“The Saulteaux Pelly Agency Health Alliance’s (SPAHA) goal with this project is to integrate the delivery of health services for three Saskatchewan communities while closing the infrastructure gap in Indigenous health care,” said the release. The SPAHA is comprised of

The news that the Saulteaux Pelly Agency Health Alliance ʼ s (SPAHA) $3 0 million proposal to construct a multipurpose health facility can move forward to the tendering phase was shared recently by Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services. At the meeting, from left were: Theodore (Ted) Quewezance of Keeseekoose First Nation, a co-chair of SPAHA; Chief Lee Ketchemonia of Keeseekoose First Nation; Chief Clinton Key of The Key First Nation; Chief George Cote of Cote First Nation and co-chair of SPAHA; Hajdu, and Terry Goertzen, associate regional executive officer, First Nations and Inuit Health Branch, Indigenous Services Canada.

Elisa Kakakaway of Cote First Nation was among the children to greet Santa Claus when he visited Kamsack during the Community Christmas Concert at the Playhouse theatre on Dec. 18. See more photos on Page 6.

The Key First Nation, Keeseekoose First Nation, and Cote First Nation.

When the health facility is completed, community members will have access to an extensive suite of services in a culturally relevant environment, including primary health care, mental health programs and services, long-term care, palliative care, and child and family services, it said. In addition, the facility will grant community access to the Keeseekoose First Nation public health space.

Construction on the project is expected to begin before April 1, 2023, and to be completed approximately 15 to 24 months later, it said. The facility will provide more than 4,000 square metres of space and will be located on Keeseekoose First Nation.

“This new multipurpose health project is the result of years of advocacy by leaders and community members in The Key, Keeseekoose, and Cote First Nations,” said Patty Hajdu, “Through their collaboration with the Saulteaux Pelly Agency Health Alliance, this facility will provide a wide range of health services that are culturally sensitive and First Nations-led. This will help close gaps in care and benefit the entire region.”

“The agreement by Indigenous Services Canada to fund the capital and the negotiations with the

This is a top view of an architectʼs drawing of the SPAHA health facility, which is expected to open to patients within two years.

Saskatchewan provincial government to fund part of the operations are great examples of reconciliation in action and demonstrate ISC’s and the province’s commitment to working with Indigenous partners to close First Nations health infrastructure gaps,” said Theodore (Ted) Quewezance of Keeseekoose, CEO of SPAHA.

“Our vision given to us from our Elders and community members and prayers have come to fruition,” said Cote First Nation Chief George Cote, chair of SPAHA. “We will be given an opportunity to provide the care, whether it be traditional or western methods,

to serve our Nations.

“It has been a long process, but the work we have done on this multi-purpose building, with the blessing of Canada, will be a way to heal together from past traumas to make the next generations healthier Nations amongst Cote First Nation, Keeseekoose First Nation, and The Key First Nation,” Cote said. “This is our time to be moving forward in truth and reconciliation with the fulfilment of our Treaty right to health care.

“We are thankful to Canada for this great moment in history as we come together in unity.”

“The announcement of this significant

milestone for our new multi-use health care facility is really great news,” said Chief Lee Ketchemonia of Keeseekoose First Nation. “Our members from the three First Nations communities will benefit from this project greatly.

“Securing primary health care for our members has always been the end goal, and we are extremely excited to be one step closer to achieving this goal,” Ketchemonia said. “We have had so many leaders that dedicated many years of service to make this dream come true for our communities.

“This multi-use health care facility will stand as a symbol for independence, healing, health and wellbeing,” he said. “Our people will benefit for many years to come.”

The goals of the facility are to improve access to various programs and services to members; improve the well-being of all communities involved; and to enhance Indigenous control over the delivery of services, the release said. The health facility will serve a combination of over 2,500 on-reserve and over 8,500 off-reserve members throughout the three communities.

The project has capital funding for 18 continuing care beds for patients with long-term health problems; two palliative care beds, and three transitional beds for patients awaiting release plans, said Chris Lafontaine

Cote Selects earn big win at home, split weekend games

The Cote Selects were defeated 10-5 by the Buffalos in Theodore in Sask East Hockey League action on Dec. 16, but bounced back in a big way with a dominant 10-1 win over the Grandview Comets at the Cote Memorial Arena on Dec. 18.

In the Grandview game, the Selects led 4-1 after the first period, and then scored the last

six goals of the game while holding the Comets scoreless in the final two periods.

Brennan Watson and Ron Cote led the offense with a total of 10 points, made up of two goals and three assists for each.

Wenden Shingoose was the top shooter with a hat trick, and added an assist. Tristan Keshane also had four points, including a goal and three assists.

Others making big contributions on the score sheet were Kailum Gervais with two goals and an assist, Zack McGriskin with three assists, and Joseph Poitras-Desjarlais added a pair of helpers.

The win leaves the Selects tied with the Comets for the fourth and final playoff spot in the North Division of the SEHL, and Cote has a game in hand.

In the game at Theodore, the Buffalos came out fast and built a 7-0 lead halfway through the game. But Cote players showed they don’t quit, and outscored Theodore

5-3 during the last half of the game.

Wenden Shingoose popped in a pair of goals for Cote. Kailum Gervais and Zack McGriskin each added a goal and an assist. The other goal came off the stick of Riley Friday.

The Selects round out the 2022 portion of their schedule with a pair of games against the Swan Valley Axemen; on Friday (Dec. 23) in Swan Valley, and then back at the Cote Memorial Arena for a return clash on Dec. 30.

of Regina, the project manager, who said he has spent about nine years in the community.

The building will also contain a suite of four offices for doctors, facilities for Telemedicine assistance, a pharmacy, a suite for Indigenous Child and Family Services; a mental health area where Elders will be utilized for assistance, and space to incorporate the Keeseekoose Health Clinic, Lafontaine said, adding that he expects the building will be completed in about two years.

“We’ve been discussing such a project for many years,” said Theodore Quewezance. “We’ve had so many deaths; six funerals this week.”

Explaining that the facility will also include an ambulance bay within the hospital, Quewezance said that the project is an example of the three communities putting their minds together to work for the community.

“It’s a positive sign for the communities, but it will need a lot of work,” he said, adding that the group is working with the Saskatchewan Health Authority, the MLA and the minister of health.

Asked how it is planned to staff a new facility when staffing concerns forced

the closure of the nearby Kamsack Hospital this summer, Quewezance said the provincial health service cannot be depended on and is “currently designed to fail.”

The biggest problem with SHA is the toxic environment where people are working, he said. Employees are expected to work more for less. The system is designed by policy makers that don’t want it to work.

“We’re trying to solve health problems,” Lafontaine said. “The health system is not working for First Nations people nor for non-First Nations people.”

Lafontaine said there exists an opportunity for people to talk.

“We are interested in making things better, but it will take an attitude change,” he said.

As it now is, politicians are running the health system, but politics don’t work in health care, Quewezance said.

“The system is not broken, as some people may say, rather it is working the way it was designed,” Lafontaine said. “We have to look at changing the design of the system.”

“There is money for health care, but the provinces don’t want to be accountable,” Quewezance said.

Shop local and win

Devan Tasa, the publisher of The Kamsack Times, draws the winners from the Times ʼ shop local contests. The winners were Carol Geerts of Kamsack and Larissa Ironstand of Kamsack.

This is an artist ʼ s rendering of the Saulteaux Pelly Agency Health Alliance ʼ s proposed $30 million multipurpose health facility that is to be constructed at Keeseekoose First Nation, beginning in April.

Town council increases wages and hires a new recreation director

Wage increases, a new recreation director and a final walk-through of the renovated Sportsplex were among items to concern town council at its regular meeting Dec. 12.

Council ratified a salary increase of 1.5 per cent for the 12 members of CUPE (Canadian Union of Public Employees) who work for the Town of Kamsack, effective the first pay period in 2023.

A similar increase was ratified for five out-ofscope employees.

Council accepted with

regret the resignation of Steven Dutcheshen, manager of recreation and community development, effective Dec. 9, and then ratified the succession of Benjamin Sipple, Administrative Clerk 1, moving into Dutcheshen’s position, effective Jan. 1. It was agreed to advertise for another administrative clerk.

Council accepted a report presented from Johnson Controls regarding deficiencies found during the

final walk- through of the Phase 1 of the Broda Sportsplex project.

Cost of remedying the deficiencies will be borne by the contractors, Mayor Nancy Brunt explained following the meeting.

It was agreed that rates for using the Sportsplex are to remain the same as they were in 2021-22.

The Sportsplex skating arena was to be opened for use on Dec. 16.

Council approved the dates for its regular meetings in 2023. There are to be two meetings

each month on the second and fourth Mondays, and only one meeting in each of July, August and December.

Recognizing that there has been a decline in the numbers of needles found by public works staff, council decided to commend the Saskatchewan Health Authority on doing pick-up sweeps within the Town.

Because the CPI (Consumer Price Index) has increased 6.9 per cent in 2022, and operating costs have increased due

to the economic financial strain since the pandemic, council approved a 6.9 per cent increase for the new fire agreements.

The Town has had fire agreements with the RM of Cote, Duck Mountain Provincial Park, Cote First Nation and a portion of the RM of Sliding Hills.

Having received a request from a business district group to allow a survey to be inserted in water bills, council, after having taken the request under advisement and

after a careful review, declined the request, saying the survey does not meet best practice standards of the municipality.

Council advised the business district members to generate, distribute and collect its surveys within its own group as it is not a council directive survey.

Council accepted information provided by Greg Podovinnikoff, park manager at Duck Mountain Provincial Park, saying that the lodge is to be dismantled.

Kamsack woman presented with Queen’s Jubilee medal

A Kamsack woman was presented with the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal during a reception at Government House in Regina on Dec. 13.

Audrey Horkoff of Kamsack, was one of 26 recipients of the medal presented by Lieut.-Gov. Russ Mirasty. Eight of the recipients were past presidents of Agribition. Horkoff served in that capacity from 2008 to 2009 and remains a lifetime member.

The medal was conferred on Horkoff “in commemoration of the 70th anniversary of Her Majesty’s accession to

the throne as Queen of Canada and in recognition on your valuable contribution to the province.”

The citation was signed by Mirasty as well as Premier Scott Moe.

Among her volunteer work she is currently the chair of the Assiniboine Health and Wellness Foundation, where she has worked to recruit physicians to Kamsack for many years.

Nominated by Terry Dennis, the CanoraPelly MLA, Horkoff had been presented with Her Majesty’s Gold Medal in 2012 in recognition of community volunteer work.

While attending a reception at Government House in Regina on Dec. 13, Audrey Horkoff was photographed with David Marit, Minister of Agriculture, in front of her Majesty ʼ s portrait, which now hangs in Government House.

Week of Christmas celebrations at KCI ended Dec. 21

Dec. 21, the last day of school at the Kamsack Comprehensive Institute, concluded a week of celebrations that began Dec. 14 with a Family Fun Night and included a Christmas dinner, Christmas gifts and five Christmas-themed spirit days.

Held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Dec. 14, the KCI Christmas Family Fun Night was designed “for all families in our community, whether they have students attending or not.”

With free admission, the event included Christmas-themed

activities held throughout the school that were organized by KCI teachers and staff. The activities included: music by the KCI Band, caroling, a Christmas bingo, the taking of family portraits, serving of hot chocolate, a “Letters to Santa,” session, reindeer candy canes, a bonfire, sleigh rides, a scavenger hunt and a Christmas lab, “First and foremost (the fun night) was to have fun,” said information from the school. “Secondly, this night was to try and boost engagement between the school and our community.”

Regarding the school’s senior band,

of $100 was needed for the band’s planned Banff trip and students were selling chocolates to raise funds for it.

The KCI Christmas dinner was set for Dec. 21, the last day of school for the year. Tickets were sold for $5 each.

The school was asking community members to donate “gently used” toys, games or Christmas ornaments that were to be distributed to Victoria School students.

The project was to give “the opportunity to select Christmas gifts for their family (and to) experience the joy of giving.” A

collection bin was located in front of the school’s main office and was to remain there until Dec. 21.

From Dec. 14 to Dec. 21, students were involved in five days of “spirit week,” which included a red/green day on Dec. 14, followed by Winter Wonderland Day (Thursday) when everyone was encouraged to wear blue and white clothing; Pajama Day held on Friday; Christmas Sweater Day was held on Monday; Festive Sock Day on Tuesday, and a “dress nice for last day of school and Christmas dinner,” on Dec. 21.

Kamsack residents urged to register for Voyent Alert!

Town council wants everyone in Kamsack to sign up to the Voyent Alert! system which provides “a new way to stay informed.”

“Voyent Alert! is a free anonymous communication platform that will keep you informed of local events, disruptions and emergent situations,” said information from

the program. “You will receive trusted and accurate information issued by the Town of Kamsack.”

With this system, “you can be immediately notified about issues that impact where you live, such as changes to garbage pickup schedules, snow routes, water main breaks, fires and community events,” the

information said. “You have the power to define which communications you receive, on which devices and for as many locations as you need.

“Receive alerts over a wide variety of communication channels, including mobile apps, text/SMS (Short Message Service) alerting, email or voice dial,” it said. A

SMS alert is a message sent to a cellphone to notify the receiver of something.

One may register for one or more of these communication options, it said. “Smart alerting capabilities ensure that you will only get notified when a communication is relevant to you or one of the locations you are

tracking.”

This system will provide residents with all kinds of information, Mayor Nancy Brunt said.

This information might include snow route alerts, water advisories, even what’s showing at the Playhouse theatre.

The City of Yorkton has started this system, Brunt said, encouraging

everyone at Kamsack to register.

One may register for Voyent Alert! for mobile app alerts by downloading and installing the Voyent Alert! app from the Apple or Google Play app stores. For email, text messages or voice call alerts, one may register online at https://register. voyent-alert.com.

Audrey Horkoff of Kamsack was presented with the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal by Lieut.-Gov. Russ Murasty on Dec. 13.

a band trip meeting was also held

Dec. 14 for all band students and parents and/ or guardians. A deposit

KCI teachers Joanne Schwartz, left, and Glenda Tulloch were collecting funds for the schoolʼs Christmas dinner that was held Dec. 21, the last day of school before the Christmas holiday.

On behalf of the board of the Yorkton Co-op Association, Dot Davies of Kamsack, a member of the Co-op board, presented a cheque of $25,000 to Joe Kozakewich , chair of the Kamsack Medical Service Committee, which was raising funds for the construction of a new medical clinic.

Three Grade 10 students of the Kamsack Comprehensive Institute, Cassidy Aker, Kaylie Bowes and Lexie Tomochko , announced that they were committing themselves to spending time the next summer to work in Nicaragua with the Me to We summer program.

A memorandum of understanding for training and education was signed between representatives of Parkland College and the Keeseekoose First Nation

Members of the Father Ruelle Council of the Knights of Columbus at Kamsack looked over a stack of 54 posters of nativity scenes created by students of the Victoria School and selected first, second and third-place winners for each grade.

Only 11 hunters took antlers to the horn measuring event held by the Norquay wildlife federation. *****

Members of the Kamsack Community Choir who performed in a Christmas concert at Westminster Memorial United Church under direction of Susan Bear, were: Al Makowsky, Roy LaRocque, John Adamyk, Bruno Lemire, Donna Sequin, Audrey Horkoff, Ashley Hollett, Milena Hollett, Debbie Sears, Zennovia Duch, Kyla Eiffert, Audrey Girling, Kathi Galye, Diane Larson, Sandy Nykolaishen, Odaria Moline, Helen Konkin, Mary Welykholowa, Diane Lemire, Winnie Koroluk, Kathleen Raabel, Gwen Reiokoff, Marilyn Marsh and Kate Jackson

When you write about agriculture, the growing interest in canola as a biofuels source is a good news story.

Food or fuel: Should crops feed people and not cars? The Ag Scene

Anything which expands a market for a crop is good for the producer of that crop, and on the Canadian Prairies and particularly in Saskatchewan, added demand for canola is going to be generally applauded.

The crop is already the major income generator on most farms, and with huge prices already in 2022 and even the hint of adding demand has to have producers near giddy with expectation.

And in a world always hungry to consume energy, the biofuel sector is one that holds the promise of a renewable source of fuel that actually has less atmospheric impact when consumed.

CALVIN DANIELS

Now big oil companies are no doubt less enamoured by biofuels, but realistically the biofuels sector will need to grow significantly before it really impacts fossil fuel profits.

So when you read a story suggesting canola demand by the biofuels sector is likely to grow, it seems like great news indeed.

But, wrapped up in such news is a question that should at least be asked, and that is if we want to see increasing acres of farmland growing crops to feed cars instead of people?

The world hit eight billion occupants this

year, and that is by any measure a lot of mouths to feed.

At this point, the world’s farmers have been up to the task.

Yes, there are people going hungry, and some facing starvation at times, but those are issues of wealth to buy food, transportation problems to get food where it is needed, and politics and war. The food, if it was distributed, exists to feed people.

But, for how long?

There is a finite amount of arable land on which food can be grown, and it is under pressure by urban sprawl, desertification,

salinization and other factors.

And that is without even admitting that crop production will be pressured moving forward by weather change.

Less land in production, or land impacted so it produces less, and food production is impacted.

On the other side of the equation is population. It continues to grow, and there aren’t even serious hints that the world is willing to discuss how that might be controlled.

The combo of pressure on farmland and population growth is not a good one.

So, is crop production for fuel, or anything which doesn’t ultimately feed people a good idea, even if it is a market for farmers?

That is a question that the world will need to answer one day.

Plants make the holiday season special in many ways

Merry Christmas, gardeners!

It seems the time has gone so quickly, the winter solstice was on Dec. 21, so that means the days will start to get longer. The shortest day and the longest night of the year are behind us, so really, can gardening season be far behind? Aren’t we gardeners an optimistic lot?

Ancient pagan symbolism believed that bringing evergreens indoors in winter, the darkest time of the year, kept evil spirits away. As time passed, these customs faded into Christian celebrations, resulting in evergreen boughs being part of traditional decorations.

Mistletoe has a long horticultural history. The Romans believed that it had magical powers. It’s a parasite plant, growing on other trees such as poplar and oak, and varieties can be found all over the world. Hanging mistletoe was originally done to encourage a new spring, and of course young men loved the mistletoe because in strict Victorian times, it was accepted to steal a kiss under the mistletoe. So likely at any gathering, the young men would be bunched around the mistletoe, like chicks under a heat lamp, waiting for the young ladies to stroll by.

The Christmas tree as we know it was made popular by Prince Albert. In 1841, Prince Albert, following the tradition of his German homeland, set up a Christmas

DEBBIE HAYWARD

tree at Windsor Castle. Of course, this set off a chain reaction of everyone wanting to do the same thing, and by the 1880s there were so many people wanting trees that nurseries had to work hard to accommodate the demand. Apparently, Trafalgar Square in London displays a Norwegian fir, a gift from the city of Oslo to say thank you to the British people for their help in the Second World War.

Holly has been full of symbolism going back to the Celts, who held it in high esteem because of its ability to be green all year. The pointy leaves were believed to give protection from evil spirits. Holly was also brought into those long-ago homes because people believed it gave shelter to fairies in the cold winter months. The ancient Romans used holly to honour Saturn, god of agriculture.

Later, in Christian folklore, the holly came to represent Jesus’ crown of thorns. If you’ve ever heard the carol The Holly and the Ivy, the words are about this.

Things like holly and mistletoe are not so familiar to us here, but here’s something we know about on the prairies: on Christmas Eve, at a traditional Ukrainian meal, hay is spread under the table and under the tablecloth to remind us that Christ was born in a manger. A sheaf of wheat stalks, the “didukh,” symbolizes the ancestors of the family, and also speaks of the importance of the crops for survival and sustenance. And of course, wheat, “kutia,” is a prominent part of the Christmas Eve meal.

Who knew that horticulture plays such a prominent part of our Christmas holiday traditions?

Since the beginning of time, plants have been vital for survival: for food, shelter, fuel, clothing, and of course, for beauty and their aesthetic gifts. And as we see, they have become part of our celebrations, as well.

Till next time, enjoy your holiday season, have a mug of hot chocolate and browse through the new seed catalogues, and maybe plant an amaryllis or some paperwhites to have some beautiful blooms in those long, wintery weeks ahead.

Merry Christmas wishes to you from my husband Keith and me. May every blessing of the season be yours.

A Casey Christmas story

Casey thought she had been really good all year and was looking forward to Santa’s visit in the dead of night on Christmas Eve. But while she waited for that special night, she and her little dog Jake decided to take a walk in the Secret Forest. Suddenly they came upon a gate that said: “To Santa’s Workshop.”

There was a silver bell next to the gate and Casey decided to ring the bell. Right away, a Christmas elf appeared, introduced himself as Olaf and shook her hand. He had a registry book with him and asked, “What is your name?” Casey politely introduced herself and Jake.

Then Olaf flipped through some pages in his book and ran his finger up and down the pages. His finger stopped suddenly, and he said, “I see that your parents are Justin and Jayne, and that your

grandparents are Gramma and Pappa. They have all reported to Santa that you have been well behaved this year, so you may come in.”

Olaf then showed Casey a magic pod just inside the gate. “This will take you and Jake to the North Pole and Santa’s workshop. When the pod door closes, blink your eyes three times and you’ll be off,” said Olaf.

She and Jake arrived on the North Pole and were greeted by Santa and Mrs. Claus, who gave Casey a big hug and walked her and Jake to her kitchen. “You must have some Christmas cookies, and a special doggy treat for Jake. You’ll love our special North Pole drink called fairy tale juice.”

It was, of course, a nonalcoholic pop, red in colour with a very sweet taste. After their treats,

Observations

KAARE ASKILDT

another Christmas elf named Ulf led them to Santa’s workshop where more Christmas elves than Casey could ever count were busy making Christmas gifts and wrapping them.

Santa stepped up on a small stool and announced the arrival of Casey, who was there to see for herself the production of all the toys. Many licenses to produce toys were displayed on the back wall from brand name companies.

Casey was amazed by the speed the toys were made; it was almost like magic! There was a

one-of-a-kind modern electronic Gutenberg printing press, producing a variety of books. Next to the Gutenberg was an art studio where talented Christmas elves were producing all kinds of paintings from landscape to portrait, and the framing shop was right next to the art studio.

Casey was finished with the workshop and Santa took her to the reindeer corral to meet all his reindeer, especially Rudolf with his bright red nose.

Afterwards, the Christmas elf Ulf took her back to Mrs. Claus and her delicious cooking.

Santa and his reindeer helped make Christmas special for Casey and for children around the world.

She served up the famous Norwegian roasted pork ribs and her Norwegian Riskrem (creamed rice porridge) for dessert, and some more fairy tale juice. Casey was very thankful for the meal and all the attention she had been given.

When Santa asked Casey what she wanted for Christmas, her first wish was for good health to be continually bestowed on her parents, “and please don’t forget gramma Marion who has recovered

from cancer, and grandpa.” Casey really had no specific toy in mind, and told Santa that he should surprise her.

Casey took another trip to the reindeer corral because it was feeding time and she wanted to help feed the oats to the reindeer. After the feeding, Santa hitched up a small sleigh behind Rudolf and Blixen. He made sure Casey was seated comfortably with Jake, then he gave the command and they took off into the air to show her that Santa’s reindeer are magical and can fly. They landed safely and Santa walked her back to the pod and told Casey to lay her finger upside her nose after the door closes, and the pod would take her back to the gate. The last Casey heard was Santa bellowing his famous “Ho, Ho, Ho!”

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night.

Premier Scott Moe’s Christmas message

Christmas is almost here, and I think we’re all excited to be celebrating with family and friends.

Over the last few years, I believe most of us have an increased appreciation for what is truly important in life. We make the most out of every opportunity we have to spend time with those that we love.

For some of you,

this will be your first Christmas in Saskatchewan. Whether you have arrived from Ukraine, Pakistan, Africa, or the Philippines, or somewhere else in the world, I want to welcome you to Saskatchewan. We are grateful that you have chosen to make this province your home and we know that you will make

Saskatchewan stronger.

The message of Christmas gives us hope for a bright future - of new beginnings with peace and goodwill for all.

Such a timeless story of God’s love revealed to mankind. A child, born to a humble young woman. Not in a palace, but in a stable on the backside of an inn. A little child

wrapped up in swaddling clothes, who came into the world to lift up the downcast, to rejoice with those rejoicing, to mourn and comfort those who are suffering. Truly He taught us to love one another.

His law is love, and his gospel is peace.

And we are so fortunate in Saskatchewan. We are blessed to have so much

of what the world needs today.

But even with all of the riches that we possess, the most precious gifts are those that can’t be bought in a store or wrapped and placed under a tree. Our families, our friends and the freedom we have to enjoy life together in peace.

In the weeks ahead,

Carla Beck’s Christmas message

Hi, I’m Carla Beck, and I have to tell you, I love this time of year.

The season’s themes of love, peace and goodwill towards others are universal. More than that, they’re the values that I learned growing up on the farm; values we still see right across our beautiful province.

We look out for our neighbours, reach out and care for the most vulnerable and comfort those

who may be sick or struggling. Acts of kindness like these happen every day in Saskatchewan. The holiday season is a reminder to all of us to keep these values front and centre, to share a little more generously, and to spread cheer a little more wisely.

For me, Christmas also means that everyone in my family carves out some time to spend together. We still go down to my parent’s place, and every

year, we get out for a hike after the turkey meal and get in a family skate at the Lang rink.

Now between ball games, dance recitals, hockey and, of course, school and work, real quality time with the full extended family happens less often these days, and it’s even more precious. Because I know, not everyone is so lucky.

The last couple years have been tough on all

of us in many ways, and some of us have been hit harder than others. For some, that may mean not being able to afford all the trimmings this year, or the uncertainty of a lost job, or maybe worrying about how you’ll pay the bills next month.

Maybe there is the fear of illness in the family, or the real sadness of missing a loved one who is no longer there around the holiday table.

If you’re going through a tough time like this, if the joy of the season isn’t present in your home, I hope that the spirit of hope is, and that the love and generosity of your neighbours finds you, and please, don’t be afraid to ask for it.

Because ultimately, hope, generosity, and love is what we’re all celebrating this season, and it’s what we should strive for… every day.

some of us will be travelling for the holidays, some of us will be celebrating at home.

Wherever you find yourself this holiday season, the hearts of myself and my wife Krista are with you and hoping the best for you and those that you love.

Merry Christmas Saskatchewan, and a very blessed New Year!

So, no matter where you live, who is at your table, and regardless of your customs. Wherever you may be gathering and worshipping. Whether your traditions run deep in this prairie soil or you’re planning your very first Saskatchewan holiday, on behalf of myself, my family, and the Saskatchewan New Democrats Merry Christmas, and best wishes in 2023

Lieutenant Governor Russ Mirasty’s Christmas message

Hello! Tansi!

During this most wonderful time of the year we focus on reaching out to family, friends and neighbours, and caring for those in need. Giving back to our communities reflects the true spirit of the season.

We may never see a more extraordinary example of service than that of our late Queen. In February, Queen Elizabeth II became the first British and Canadian monarch to serve 70 years as sovereign. In Saskatchewan, we are commemorating her remarkable reign with the awarding of Queen

Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medals. It has been my privilege to present many of these medals to people in recognition of outstanding contributions to the betterment of our province. Acknowledging people who help others is one of the most fulfilling duties of my role as Lieutenant Governor.

I extend my sincere gratitude to everyone who gives of their time and talents to enrich our communities. In Saskatchewan, we are rich when it comes to kind-hearted volunteers.

I also want to thank everyone serving in the

Canadian Armed Forces, police and fire services, first responders, health care professionals, educators and front-line workers for going beyond the call of duty.

In addition, I am deeply grateful for the guidance I received from elders, knowledge keepers, survivors and their families in the creation of the Saskatchewan Residential School Memorial. On June 21, National Indigenous Peoples Day, the memorial was dedicated on the grounds of Government House in Regina. We hope that it will be a reflective

place where everyone can come to learn and heal.

My wife Donna and I were pleased to host an event on Sept, 30, National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day, around the Memorial with hundreds of school children in attendance.

Over the last few months, we have experienced a renewal of special events that had been postponed due to the pandemic. We were thrilled to present Canada Day celebrations at Government House for the first time during my term. With thousands of guests,

we enjoyed a delightful afternoon filled with multicultural entertainment and fun for all ages.

Donna and I are also excited to invite you back to Government House for a New Years Levee. Please join us Jan. 1 from 1-4 p.m. to welcome in 2023 and say goodbye to 2022 - which has been a momentous year.

In September, as Canadians mourned the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, we also welcomed King Charles as our new monarch.

I am happy to bring you season’s greetings on

behalf of His Majesty, King Charles the Third, King of Canada. And, on behalf of my family and staff, I wish you happy holidays. And I would like to share these season’s greetings with you in my first language, which is Woodland Cree.

Nitha ikwa Donna ni-cawasimisinanak, nosisiminanak.

Nipakosithitinan kahkithaw

Kita mitho makosikisikanisik

ekwa kita mitho ocimikisikansik. From my family to yours, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Nate and Quinn Bedore had a few moments to talk to Santa Claus at the conclusion of the Christmas concert.

Tendley Tourangeau of Kamsack found a friend in Santa Claus during the Christmas concert.

Treats and a hug from Santa Claus helped make Dec. 18 a memorable day for Wyatt Hotomani.

Chazzik Keshane of Cote First Nation told Santa Claus what he wanted for Christmas.

A hug from Santa Claus told Feurry Gervas of Kamsack that he should be prepared for a nice gift under the tree this year.

With Santa Claus during the Christmas concert at Kamsack, from left, were: Carol Brewster, Rose Jerome and Mikayla Didychuk.

Nominate!

Raise your voice.

Christmas celebrated with songs, treats and laughter at Kamsack

Songs, laughter and treats with Santa Claus were all part of the Kamsack Community Christmas Concert held at the Playhouse theatre Dec. 18.

With Jack Koreluik as emcee, the program, hosted by the Playhouse committee, began with the Kamsack Community Choir singing Prophets Knew and Glory on a Christmas Morn Kali Wyllychuk took to the stage to sing Last Christmas , and then Erika Sweeney, accompanying herself on guitar,

performed So This is Christmas and I’ll be Home for Christmas

After an intermission when Quinn Bedore performed piano solos, Christine Day and Sarah Burrows sang Silent Night, Silver Bells and White Christmas

On the stage next came Wyatt Hotomani, Bethany Walterson, Rose Jerome and Cage Clark to perform a short Nativity spoof, which combined the traditional story of Christmas with contemporary jokes.

The audience sang several carols as everyone waited for the arrival of Santa Claus. He arrived with bags of sweet goodies that were distributed to all those with sweet teeth, and posed for photographs.

Admission to the concert was a silver collection, and it included free coffee, hot chocolate and cookies. Draws were made for two prizes: a basket of goodies, and a Christmas wreath.

Performing a spoof on the Nativity as Joseph and Mary, a shepherd and wise “man,” from left, were: Cage Calrk, Rose Jerome, Wyatt Hotomani and Bethany Walterson.

Kali Wyllychuk performed on stage at the Community Christmas Concert.

Quinn Bedore provided piano music during the intermission at the Christmas concert.

New girls hockey team perfect at Melville tournament

The Parkland Prairie Ice, a first-year U13 girls hockey team, was formed in time for the 2022/23 season to give area girls and district audiences the opportunity to enjoy girls hockey.

The team’s roster is filled out by girls from a number of area communities, including: Canora, Norquay, Sturgis, Kamsack, Preeceville and Yorkton.

The players enjoyed their first game action as a team in the best possible way; winning five straight games to capture first place at a tournament held in Melville Dec. 10-11.

The head coach is Nicole Korpusik of Norquay, who was a member of the first University of Regina Cougars female hockey team during her playing days.

The Melville tournament began on Saturday when the Ice hooked up with Parkland Fire, the host team, and skated away with a 6-3 win. Since it was their first game action as a team, Korpusik admits she wasn’t sure what to expect.

“My jaw hit the floor from the drop of the first puck, the leadership was incredible and the teamwork blew my mind,” said Korpusik “Our passing was incredible and the girls took every opportunity to make plays and include each player on the team.”

In their first game together, the players showed a strong ability to handle adversity.

“When the Fire scored against us it wasn’t a hangyour-head moment, these

girls would rally around each other and bounce back.”

Harper Danchilla and Avery Lammers of Yorkton led the offence with two goals each. Single markers came from Ryea Harper of Canora and Rowyn Johnson of Norquay.

The second game was later in the day against the Warman Bearcats, which was a dominant 9-0 shutout for the Ice and goalie Ty Northrop of Norquay.

“We had almost every player contribute on the scoresheet, whether it was through goals or assists. It was awesome to see,” marveled Korpusik.

Danchilla and Lammers once again contributed a total of four goals to the cause with two each. Tessica Mydonick of Canora and Morgan Olson of Sturgis each scored twice, while Makayla Johnson of Preeceville contributed one goal.

The action started early on Sunday, with an 8:30 a.m. faceoff against the Warman Bengals.

“The girls played gritty which resulted in having to work a little harder and be disciplined because we spent some time in the penalty box that game,” reported Korpusik. “Those penalties were mostly the result of hard work, not unsportsmanlike play, so I’ll take it. We came out on top with a 5-1 win.”

For the third straight game, Avery Lammers scored a pair of goals. Singles came from Ryea Harper, Rowyn Johnson and Isabelle Smith of Yorkton.

In loving memory of Andy Popoff

July 29, 1942 - Dec. 16, 2021

God saw you getting tired, and a cure was not to be, so He put his arms around you and whispered, “Come to Me.”

With tearful eyes we watched you, and saw you pass away, and although we loved your dearly, we could not make you stay. A golden heart stopped beating Hard working hands at rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us, He only takes the best. Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by Margie, Dwayne, Sheryl & family

The final round robin game was against the Hamiota Huskies from across the border in Manitoba. Based on the standings, the Ice players knew they had qualified for the final game before the puck was dropped.

“But this didn’t stop our girls from playing their hearts out. Again we had a great mix of numbers on the score sheet and came out with a 7-2 win and an undefeated round robin record.”

Harper Danchilla scored four goals and Morgan Olson added a pair, with Avery

The Parkland Prairie Ice, a new U13 girls hockey team this season, won a tournament held in Melville on Dec. 10 and 11 thanks to five straight wins. From left, were: (standing) Bowdrie Northrop of Norquay (assistant coach), Tessica Mydonick of Canora, Jess Harper of Canora (assistant coach), Avery Masley of Sturgis (in front of Harper), Isabelle Smith of Yorkton, Chloe Doogan and Ryea Harper of Canora, Allie Babiuk of Sturgis, Makayla Johnson of Preeceville and Nicole Korpusik of Norquay (head coach); (kneeling) Camryn Kosokowsky of Kamsack, Cassidy Wolkowski of Canora, Rowyn Johnson of Norquay, Avery Lammers and Harper Danchilla of Norquay, Rylee Coleman and Morgan Olson of Sturgis; and (front) Ty Northrop of Norquay (goalie).

Lammers rounding out the scoring.

Korpusik said they were given about an hour “to rest and fuel up” before hitting the ice for the championship final, pitted against the host Parkland Fire for the second time in the tournament. The final score was 4-1 for the Ice.

“We knew they’d come out flying. . This was their tournament and they would be hungry for a win. The Fire scored first but our girls responded quickly and the first period ended with both teams on the board with one each. Our girls were showing signs of fatigue and had to dig deep. The passes weren’t coming as easily and the shots weren’t finding the mesh as they had before. We fought through frustrations, blisters, sugar lows, headaches and fatigue. We supported each other and we persevered, we came away as champions with a 4-1 victory!”

Avery Lammers was the offensive leader in this game with a pair of goals. Tessica Mydonick and Cassidy Wolkowski of Canora each found the net to provide the Ice with their margin of victory. Ty Northrop was the winning goalie for all five games, and made an offensive contribution as well with a pair of assists over the

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“I couldn’t be more proud of these girls,” shared Korpusik. “Sticking together is easy when you’re fresh and winning but when you’re tired, hurting and frustrated your true colours as a player and a team come out. These girls stuck it out, never quit and supported each other through the adversity - that’s why they are the champs.”

Jackie Guidry, tournament organizer, was pleased to see the teams from the Parkland area in Saskatchewan and Manitoba “having good, competitive games” during the tournament.

“We need to continue to increase the awareness of female hockey all over Saskatchewan so girls can continue to build lifelong friendships and skills while playing with and against other girls.”

Korpusik is quite impressed with the accomplishments of her players during their short time as a

team, especially since they only had two practises together before the Melville tournament.

“Each of the girls on this team play on a house team in either Preeceville, Canora, Kamsack or Yorkton which means during the regular season we are competitors. This could make building a new team challenging. There are five different team schedules to try to work around in order to plan practices, so finding times that work for everyone and ice time that corresponded with open schedules was logistically challenging. Luckily, we have an incredible manager, Jaime Johnson, who has worked tirelessly to find opportunities for us. I am proud to say our players have bonded quickly both on and off the ice.”

The Ice now get to enjoy the Christmas break, before preparations begin in the New Year for a tournament in Portage la Prairie, Man. from Jan. 13-15.

Super League curling action moves to Manitoba

Week 5 of Duck Mountain Super League curling action took place in Benito, Man. last week, according to a release from Glen Becenko of Kamsack.

“The club just got the ice in a few days before and the surface was great, good job,” reported Becenko.

Swan Valley Chriropractic keep its unbeaten streak alive with a win over Challoner Farms 6 to 3. W.F Shcnieder and Sons extended its win streak with a lop-sided win over Pattison Ag 10 to 2. NCC Farms also stayed in the win column in a lowscoring game, upending

last year’s winner, Swan Valley Properties 5 to 3. In the final game in Benito, Pioneer Hybrid easily defeated Hub International 7 to 3.

“Thanks to all the sponsors of the teams to help keep this league going and providing a little funding for the teams to compete for,” said Becenko. “One final note, a big thanks to the ice makers at the clubs and the workers who provide the teams with beverages and good food when they get off the ice.”

The last draw to be played before Christmas, was slated for Norquay.

After scoring a goal during the Melville tournament, Prairie Parkland Ice players on the ice celebrated with teammates on the bench.

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TYSOWSKI- Withdeep sorrow,weannouncethe passingofJimTysowskion January13,2022.Jimwasborn inKamsackonDecember18, 1945,andwasthesecondoldest offoursiblings.Aftergraduating fromhighschoolinKamsack, JimjoinedtheRCMPinMarch 1966andgraduatedsixmonths later.Hisfirstpostingwasin Chilliwack,BC.Jimspenthis entireRCMPcareerwiththe"E" DivisioninBritishColumbia,with postingsinBostonBar, Princeton,Parksville,Salmo, DawsonCreek,VancouverHQ, CoquitlamandPrinceRupert.He retiredasaS/SgtfromCoquitlamDetachmentasthe AdministrationNCOinAugust2004,with381/2yearsofproud service.Jimispredeceasedbyhisparents,TonyandJuliaanda niece,Mandi.HeissurvivedbyhisdaughterKeri(Tim)and grandsonDale(Devon)ofParksville;sonJayofEdmonton;sister Beatrice(Mert)ofCanora;brotherJerry(Karen)ofMooseJaw; sisterDeborahofCalgary;nephewsPat(Andrea),Mark (Candace);nieceStephanie(Andrew)andnephewsEric,andIan (Meghan).Jim'sasheswereinterredatRCMPDepotonAugust 22,2022.

FCC provides funding for Fort Pelly-Livingstone Museum

Farm Credit Canada (FCC) is helping the Fort Pelly-Livinstone Museum at Pelly get its furnace fixed.

Through its FCC AgriSpirit Fund, 85

community groups across Canada are receiving a total of $1.5 million which is intended to support rural capital projects, said a release from FCC.

The Pelly museum is to receive $10,000 for the upgrade of the building’s furnace.

“At FCC, we applaud all Canadian nonprofit groups that invest time and energy to support their fellow citizens,” said Shannon Weatherall, FCC senior vice-president of Prairie operations. “Through

the AgriSpirit Fund, FCC supports causes that contribute to a sense of community and help improve the quality of life for rural residents.

“It’s one of the ways FCC gives back to the communities where our customers and employees live and work.”

This year, the FCC AgriSpirit Fund awarded between $5,000 and $25,000 for various community improvement initiatives that enrich the lives of residents in cities, towns or Indigenous

communities with fewer than 150,000 people, the release said.

Over the past 19 years, the FCC AgriSpirit Fund has supported 1,529 projects, an investment of $19.5 million.

The next application period opens April 1, 2023. Registered charities, municipalities, First Nations and non-profit organizations interested in funding can visit www.fccagrispiritfund.ca for eligibility requirements, to apply online and view past projects.

Chiropractors’ Toasty Toes sock drive exceeds expectations

Throughout the months of October and November, Saskatchewan chiropractors partnered with The Salvation Army to warm the feet of Saskatchewan’s vulnerable people through the 6th Annual Toasty Toes Sock Drive.

Participating chiropractors’ clinics, including the Strukoff Chiropractic Clinic in Kamsack, have been collecting donations of new pairs and packages of socks.

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“Socks are a basic clothing necessity, vital in keeping us warm and dry in the winter and an item that many of us may take for granted,” said a joint release from the Chiropractors’ Association of Saskatchewan and The Salvation Army. “Many people in our communities do not have access to socks, making their winters even more difficult.

The initial goal of this year’s Toasty Toes Sock Drive was to collect 10,000 pairs of socks throughout the province, the release said.

Saskatchewan chiropractors have surpassed that goal and collected 12,325 pairs of socks and $2,560 in donations towards other necessities of winter. Many community members and organizations,

such as local schools and post-secondary institutions, also contributed to collecting socks across the province.

“We would like to thank Saskatchewan residents for their sock donations, and our chiropractic community in Saskatchewan for their continued support of this very worthwhile cause,” said Dr. Jennifer Beggs, President of the Chiropractors’ Association of Saskatchewan.

These socks will be donated to The Salvation Army locations throughout the province and put to good use, including the Christmas Hamper program, the release said.

“The Salvation Army is humbled and grateful for the continued support the community gives us,” said Major Al Hoeft of The Salvation Army. “Their efforts help us continue to give hope to those in need.

“The effort put forth by the Chiropractors’ Association of Saskatchewan is incredible and their hard work shows the passion they have for their community. Thank you to everyone.”

In total, over the last six years of the sock drive, over 92,500 pairs of socks and $7,400 have been collected and donated to

those in need.

The Chiropractors’ Association of Saskatchewan regulates the chiropractic profession in Saskatchewan under The Chiropractic Act, 1994.

“We are committed to serving the best interests of the public by regulating and advancing excellence in chiropractic care and improving Saskatchewan’s health and well-being,” the release said.

The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become one of the largest direct providers of social services in the country, it said. The Salvation Army gives hope and support to vulnerable people in 400 communities across Canada and in 128 countries around the world. The Salvation Army offers practical assistance for children and families, often tending to the basic necessities of life, providing shelter for homeless people and rehabilitation for people who have lost control of their lives to an addiction.

“When you give to The Salvation Army, you are investing in the future of marginalized and overlooked people in your community.”

Kamsack wildlife federation members have antlers measured

Executive members of the Kamsack branch of the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation were happy with the “really good turnout” of members for their annual horn measuring event on Dec. 9, but the number of antlers for measuring was down.

“We didn’t have a lot of antlers to measure,” said Tyson Leis, vice-president of the branch.

The event was held at the Veregin arena, where stored along the walls were possibly hundreds of artificial evergreen trees and several life-sized

animal targets used by the River Valley Archery Club that uses the facility for its regular practices during the winter months.

While certified measurers and training measurers were at work studying the antlers brought in by hunters, the hunters and their friends and family members were able to enjoy a wing-night supper.

“We had no elk antlers to measure, only two moose, and about 15 smaller deer,” Leis said, attributing the lower numbers to a smaller population of ungulates due to cold winters and a large number of coyotes in the area.

Measuring the antlers was Floyd Hendrickson of Margo who was joined by his wife Dianne. He is qualified to measure for Henry Kelsey in Saskatchewan, Boone and Crocket in North America and Pope and Young for

archery in North America. Also measuring was Lorne Leis of Kamsack, the branch measurer, and Devan Petruk, a member of the branch who is a measurer-in-training.

“It was a significant drop,” Tyson Leis said,

explaining that numbers were much higher the past two years.

The session included door prizes and a lottery draw.

Results of the

measuring may be made more specific when the group holds its annual banquet at the OCC Hall in Kamsack, either at the end of January or the beginning of April.

Todd Bobyk

Floyd Hendrickson of Margo, who was joined by his wife Dianne, was the official measurer at the annual horn measuring event held by the Kamsack branch of the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation at the Veregin arena Dec. 9.

Lorne Leis, left, who is the authorized antler measurer for the Kamsack wildlife federation, was at work in Veregin on Dec. 9. With Leis was Riley Barrowman, branch president.

Admiring two sets of moose antlers that were measured at Veregin on Dec. 9 were Lance Lucash and Carson Chernoff of Veregin.

Leanne Green, right, of Kamsack, was photographed with the antlers of a white-tailed deer that she shot during the muzzle loading season in October. With her was Harper Chernoff.

Admiring a deer ʼs antlers at the horn measuring event in Veregin Dec. 9 were Marisa Desmarais of Yorkton, representing the Hilltop Curling Rink, and Kirstin Hanson of Esterhazy. Both young women are members of the Kamsack wildlife federation.

Members of the Kamsack Community Choir, under the direction of Susan Bear and with accompaniment on piano by Deb Cottenie, from left, were: Rick Aikman, Kayode Bamigbola, Cathy Galye, Arlene Smorodin, Audrey Horkoff and Zennovia Duch.

Christine Day, left, and Sarah Burrows sang several carols at the Christmas concert.

Erika Sweeney accompanied herself on guitar as she sang two carols.

Mary had a baby boy in Bethlehem

BY REV. KURUVI AKATTUKUDILIL

Parish priest for Canora, Kamsack and St. Philips

Roman Catholic churches Christmas is our encounter with God. Coming of the Lord is a reality not only outside us but also within us. The Lord comes to each of us into the very fabric of our being. Let us sense it in this time, but this time He comes to us as a child. But the fullness of God (baby boy in Bethlehem) –(Emmanuel) being with us will be real in the spiritual way only with the celebration of feasts like the Resurrection, the Pentecost and the Ascension. He becomes the eternal one and He is with us eternally.

So let the truth prevail always with us and the integrity rule in and through our conscience. It places a responsibility for peace, which is the main feature of this feast at the feet of God our baby boy and each one of us. Isaiah calls us to live in truth and integrity and to be true children of God, people who made God visible to others.

God is the very core of our existence. The

Divine is not someone up in the sky; it is inside you and me in the form of consciousness. Know that we have abundance of grace and peace within us and then God is our own. Happiness, joy and devotion come through the channels of grace and peace. Whatever one gets in life in terms of happiness is only through these channels. We have always the thought of God as a father up in the heavens or sky somewhere. When we think of God as a father, we want to demand and take from Him. Why do we want to pray? What do we want to ask? A good father already knows what to give. So Baby Jesus is the Father’s gift to us. Assume you and I are the most beloved of the Divine, then surrender happens. Surrender is not an action in itself; it is devotion and assumption as well. Nonsurrender is ignorance and illusion. Surrender begins as an assumption first and then it reveals itself as a reality in and through our lives. The world is made up of both, the seen universe and the unseen consciousness. We have to

be here in this universe to experience the Divine who is formless. There is no “two,” no duality.

For God, there is no you and I. He can only see Himself in everything and everyone. No one has any independent existence. God is not an object of senses, but the feelings of feelings, the presence of presence, the sound of silence, light of light, the essences of the world and the taste of bliss. So you and I have to be pregnant with God. You and I have to take care of our pregnancy and deliver the child God into the world. Most people do not deliver. But God is our child who clings on to us like a baby until you and I grow old and die. When you and I see God as a child, you and I have no demands. Our

surrender to a child God in this season has to be genuine. This Child clings on to the devotee, crying for nourishment: Sadhana (spiritual learning). Satsang (worship music and meditation) and Seva (service to the vulnerable in society) are nourishments for the devotee. The vulnerable in society are also crying for nourishments. Atheists lurk around the corner. Doubts, disbelief and ignorance are the atheists in our minds. So better take care.

In a mother’s womb there were two babies. One asked the other: “Do you believe in life after delivery?” The other replied: “Why of course. There has to be something after delivery. Maybe we are here to prepare ourselves for what we will be later?”

“Nonsense,” said the first. “There is no life after delivery. What kind of life would that be?” The second said: “I don’t know, but there will be

more light than there is here in the womb. Maybe we will walk with our legs and eat with our mouths. Maybe we will have other senses that we cannot understand now.”

The first replied: “That is absurd. Walking is impossible. And eating with our mouths? Ridiculous! The umbilical cord supplies nutrition and everything we need. But the umbilical cord is so short. Life after delivery is to be logically excluded then.”

The second insisted: “Well, I think there is something and maybe it is different than it is here. Maybe we don’t need this physical cord anymore.” The first replied: “Nonsense. And moreover, if there is life, then why has no one ever come back from there? Delivery is the end of life and in the after delivery, there is nothing but darkness, silence and oblivion. It takes us nowhere.”

“Well, I don’t know,”

said the second, “but certainly we will meet our mother and she will take care of us.” The first replied: “Mother? You actually believe in mother? That is laughable. If mother exists, where is she now?” The second said: “She is all around us. We are surrounded by her. We are of her. It is in her that we live, we move and have our being. Without her, this world would not and could not exist.”

Said the first: “Well, I don’t see her, so it is only logical that she doesn’t exist.” To which the second replied: “Sometimes when you are in silence and you focus and listen, you can perceive her presence and you can hear her loving voice calling down from above.”

Maybe this is one of the best explanations of the concept of God. (Parable from Your Sacred Self by Dr. Wayne Dyer.)

Merry Christmas and a happy new year.

2022 Christmas g reeting from Terry Dennis MLA

This holiday Christmas season is a time to reflect on the birth of Jesus Christ, and how blessed we are to live in a place of peace.

It is also a time to think of the less fortunate, and to appreciate the family and friends with whom we share our good

fortune.

It is also a time to pray for the people of Ukraine during this senseless war. We welcome the thousands of displaced Ukrainians that have made Saskatchewan their new home and celebrate their first Canadian Christmas. We must also

pray for all the people that are struggling throughout the world.

On behalf of myself, Terry Dennis, my wife Lorri and my family, and my staff, I would like to wish everyone peace, joy, happiness and love during this holiday season and all the best in the New Year.

Terry Dennis MLA Canora - Pelly Constituency

My family and I would like to wish you a healthy and safe holiday season!

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!

Rev. Kuruvi Akattukudilil

An escape room escapade

BY SARAH BEAUREGARD AND JOHANNIE DUFOUR / TRANSLATED BY KATYA TEAGUE

Once upon a time, in the town of Mount Christmas, a group of young students were running around the gym at their school. Since it was the last day of class before the holidays, Miss Sophie had organized an es cape game to get the children moving.

Using exercise mats, the teacher had divided the gym into several sections, one for each team. The first group to find all five clues would be able to break free from the evil elves’ workshop and warn Santa about the rebel reindeers’ plan to ruin Christmas. Plus, they would win a special prize.

The students ran between stacked gift boxes, crawled under strands of fairy lights and jumped through giant wreaths.

Emma and her teammates had already collected three clues: the first was “the reindeer rebels”; the second was “with pieces of coal”; and the third clue was “for good children.” The team only needed two more clues to complete

the warning, escape the workshop and win the game.

Emma and her group scanned the area. There were still three places they could look: the Christmas ornament that hung from the ceiling, the trunk of elf disguises and Santa’s list of naughty and nice children.

To speed up their search, the team decided to split up. Emma and Camille would check the ornament, Liam and Zoey would scan the list, and Enzo and Hugo would search through the trunk.

Emma and Camille rushed over to the ladder that led to the hanging decoration.

“You climb the ladder and I’ll cheer you on,” Emma told her partner.

“I hurt my wrist doing karate,” Camille replied. “I’d rather you go.”

Emma didn’t want to admit she was afraid of heights – and she definitely didn’t want to lose – so she began to climb the ladder. However, before she could reach the top, Emma stopped. She was frozen with fear!

Just then, the magical cardinal named Octave, who liked to help

the residents of Mount Christmas, landed on the rung above her.

“Don’t look down, Emma. Just stare at the Christmas ornament,” he advised. “Think about how you’re getting closer to the top rather than further from the ground.”

“Don’t look down,” she repeated to herself. Emma took a deep breath, looked straight at the ornament and continued her climb as Octave and Camille encouraged her from below. Soon, she reached the top and spotted a piece of paper attached to the

decoration. The clue read: “have replaced.”

Emma was so proud of herself. She carefully climbed down and rejoined Camille just as Enzo and Hugo ran over holding their own clue. It read: “the gifts.”

The teammates could barely contain their

excitement as they placed the five clues in a line on the floor.

“The reindeer rebels with pieces of coal for good children have replaced their gifts,” Zoey read. “That doesn’t make any sense!”

“I think we have to put the clues in the right order,” Liam suggested.

After a moment of reflection, the kids rearranged the clues and called out to their teacher. Miss Sophie rushed over and together the six friends shouted:

“The reindeer rebels have replaced the gifts for good children with pieces of coal!”

“Congratulations,” Miss Sophie exclaimed. “You’re the first team to break free!”

Emma was overjoyed. Once all the teams finished the game, the winners received their prize. It was tickets to the annual Mount Christmas figure skating show and coupons for free hot chocolates with marshmallows!

Holding her prize close to her heart, Emma silently thanked Octave as he flew out of the gym, whistling merrily as he went.

Merry Christmas

Jim and all the staff at Duck Mountain Ambulance would like to wish you a very safe and happy holiday season and may peace and joy fill your home all year around.

Duck Mountain Ambulance Kamsack, Norquay and Watson

May your Christmas sparkle with moments of love, laughter & goodwill. Kamsack Town Council Kamsack Town Council

Kamsack Recreation Committee with Kamsack Playhouse Theater

OWEN RUDY

Grade 1

Victoria School

What do you want for Christmas?

“A toy dinosaur and finger boards”

LEXIE DEWORES

Grade 1 Victoria School

What do you want for Christmas?

“A toy unicorn and Christmas pajamas”

BELLA COTE

Grade 1

Victoria School

What do you want for Christmas?

“Crystals”

CAELLE QUIAMBAO

Grade 1 Victoria School

What do you want for Christmas? “Robots”

TENLEY LEIS

Grade 1 Victoria School What do you want for Christmas?

“A Fidget Toy Maker”

BRYNN SHABATOSKI

Grade 1 Victoria School What do you want for Christmas?

“A love potion”

BEXLEIGH THURLOW

Grade 1 Victoria School

What do you want for Christmas?

“Magic Mixie”

MAELIE HILDERMAN

Grade 2 Victoria School What do you want for Christmas? “A diary book”

JOSEPH CYMBALISTY

Grade 2 Victoria School

What do you want for Christmas?

“A magic pen”

HUNTER HILDERMAN Grade 2 Victoria School

What do you want for Christmas? “Skis”

BRANTLEY NAHNYBIDA Grade 2 Victoria School What do you want for Christmas?

“What I want most is a secret, but second, a remote controlled monster truck.”

CHRISTIAN COTE Grade 1 Victoria School What do you want for Christmas?

“L.O.L. Surprise girls’ stuff”

A fright in the forest

BY SARAH BEAUREGARD AND JOHANNIE DUFOUR / TRANSLATED BY KATYA TEAGUE

Once upon a time, in the town of Mount Christmas, a family was searching for the perfect tree to put in their home for the holidays. Anita led the way through the evergreens pulling an empty sled with the family dog beside her. Behind them, Kathryn carried a saw while their six-year-old twins, Matthew and Nathan, frolicked through the snow.

When they arrived at the spot reserved for cutting down Christmas trees, the family took a quick look around. Some trees were too short, but others were too tall. Some were too narrow, while others were too wide.

Then, from slightly up ahead Nathan called out, “Come look! This one is PERFECT!”

As they gathered around the lush fir, the whole family immediately agreed: this was their Christmas tree! Kathryn was just about to start sawing when Matthew tugged on Anita’s coat. The boy had noticed a set of large footprints in the snow.

Oh my, Anita though. Those look like they were made by a yeti! She tried to remain calm, but suddenly a wolf how led in the distance. Matthew whimpered and clung to his mother’s leg.

What’s going on? Anita wondered. The only animals that live in this forest are harmless creatures like rabbits, squirrels and deer.

Anita knew there must be a logical explanation.

“Children, stay here with Mama Kathryn,” she said. “Bell and I will go take a look.”

She tugged on the dog’s leash and waved as she left.

“Be careful,” the boys cried out, hugging each other tight.

The howling of the wolf continued as Anita and Bell followed the footprints, but it started to sound like a melody. Soon, the smell of smoke filled the air. That’s strange, Anita thought.

Just then, she stepped into a clearing and spotted a man sitting near a campfire. It was Julian, the local inventor. He was wearing an odd pair of snowshoes and playing a strange-looking instrument.

“Julian!” Anita exclaimed. “You gave my family quite a scare. For

a moment, I thought a yeti and a pack of wolves were having a party in the woods.”

The inventor laughed and scratched Bell behind her ears. “Sorry about that. I was just testing my new, ultralight snowshoes inspired by the abominable snowman. I also made this special harmonica that mimics a howling wolf.”

“Well, it certainly works,” Anita replied. “I’d better go let my family know they’re safe. See you later!”

When Anita rejoined her family and told them about her discovery, they all laughed. As Kathryn got to work sawing down their tree, it started to snow. By the time the tree was secured to the sled, so much snow had fallen that they couldn’t see the trail back.

Anita and Kathryn looked at each other. Neither of them knew which way to go, but they didn’t want the boys to think they were lost and get scared. Just then, a bright red bird landed nearby. It was Octave, the magical cardinal of Mount Christmas. With a tilt of his head, the cardinal began to hop around in

the snow. When Kathryn took a closer look, she saw that Octave had drawn an arrow.

“It’s time to go home,” the bird said and winked.

“Thank you, Octave,” she replied.

The family set off in the direction of the arrow, and soon they were home safe and sound. After such an eventful day, everyone was ready to relax by the fire and decorate their beautiful tree.

Victoria School students say what they want for Christmas

JAYDEN LEIS Grade 1 Victoria School

What do you want for Christmas?

“A pocket knife”

COOPER SKINNER Grade 1 Victoria School

What do you want for Christmas?

“A book with a frog in it”

there will be no papers on: Thursday, Dec. 29 • Thursday, Jan. 5.

The first paper of 2023 will be on Thursday, Jan. 12.

The Canora Courier office will be closed starting 12 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 21 and will reopen at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 4.

From William Koreluik (Kamsack Freelancer), Devan Tasa (Publisher, Kamsack Sales), Rocky Neufeld (Editor, Canora Reporter), Lori Bugera (Canora & Preeceville Sales), Bev Dyck (Front Desk), Liz Jacobsen (Preeceville Reporter) and Sid Frykas (Mail Room, not in photo).

As we’ll be recharging over the holidays,

A surprise at the store

BY SARAH BEAUREGARD AND JOHANNIE DUFOUR / TRANSLATED BY KATYA TEAGUE

Once upon a time, in the town of Mount Christmas, there was a quaint little general store where all the residents went to shop. The owner, Lucy, was well known for her kind heart and generous spirit. In fact, she often donated food and toys to charities in the area.

One early morning in December, as Lucy prepared to open the store, she noticed dozens of customers lined up outside. It was an unusually large crowd, especially since she hadn’t announced any big sales that week.

As soon as Lucy unlocked the door, customers flooded into the store. They all headed straight for the decoration aisle.

With Christmas just around the corner, I guess they want to make sure their homes look festive, Lucy thought.

Strangely though, everyone seemed to be interested in only one type of decoration. Lucy watched as residents

bought strand after strand of garlands. She also noticed that many of her customers were giggling and whispering to each other as they left.

This is very odd, Lucy thought, but she didn’t ask any questions. She

preferred to respect the privacy of her fellow citizens.

However, the store owner soon began to worry that she would run out of the popular garlands. Lucy asked her young cashier to keep an eye on the shop, then

she rushed to the storage room.

Lucy searched and searched for the boxes of extra garlands, but they were nowhere to be found.

“Where did I put them?” she wondered out loud.

That’s when she heard a familiar chirp. It was Octave, the magical cardinal that watched over the town of Mount Christmas.

From his perch atop a shelf, the bird cheerfully sang: “Your treasure awaits, near the skis and skates!”

“Of course,” Lucy exclaimed. She’d put all the extra Christmas decorations alongside the sporting goods last year.

“Thank you, my feathered friend,” she said. Lucy quickly gathered up the boxes of garlands and went to restock the shelves.

By the time she headed home that evening, Lucy was tired but happy that she’d had enough supplies for all of her customers. When she pulled into the driveway, her jaw dropped. Lucy rubbed her eyes to make sure she wasn’t dreaming.

“Is this my house?” she exclaimed. All the garlands she’d sold that day now lined the roof, encircled the windows and embellished the front door of her home. Even the fence and trees were twinkling with

tinsel. “It’s so beautiful! But who put these here?”

Suddenly, dozens of people emerged from behind the hedges, cheering and clapping. Right away, Lucy recognized the familiar faces of her loyal customers.

“You did this?” she asked. “But why?”

An elderly gentleman stepped forward and handed Lucy a bouquet of flowers.

“Dearest Lucy,” he said, “since your store is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, we wanted to thank you for your hard work and generosity. We know how much you love the holidays, but you never have time to decorate your home. So, we decided to do it for you!”

“Don’t worry,” the man added with a chuckle, “we’ll come take them down for you after New Year’s Day.”

As Lucy hugged each of her customers and thanked them for this wonderful surprise, Octave watched from a nearby tree, his red plumage shimmering like tinsel in the moonlight.

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays

Our sincere thanks for your support of our museum throughout the years. We look forward to opening next summer and greeting old friends.

POWER HOUSE MUSEUM

the joy of the season and the good tidings of the New Year bring peace, happiness and prosperity to your home.

BY SARAH BEAUREGARD AND JOHANNIE DUFOUR / TRANSLATED BY KATYA TEAGUE

Once upon a time, in the town of Mount Christmas, a couple from the big city had recently arrived. They’d come to visit a re lative who lived at the local retirement home.

Courtney and Lewis were in a great mood as they walked up to the reception desk at the Mount Christmas Motel.

The pair talked excitedly with the clerk as he looked for their reservation. When he handed Lewis the keycard, he advised that the couple write down “D-8” since the room number wasn’t written on the card. Then, he wished them a pleasant stay.

The tourists thanked the clerk and went to park their car in front of their room. Carrying a heavy suitcase, Lewis was just about to slide the keycard through the slot when the door opened to reveal a young woman holding a baby.

“Que faites-vous à ma porte, monsieur?” she asked in French, sounding confused.

“Uh… sorry, I don’t

speak French,” Lewis stammered.

“This is our room,” Courtney said slowly and clearly. She pointed to the keycard and then to the number on the door. “Uhm, notre place,” she tried.

The French woman shook her head as she pulled on a pair of boots. Wrapping a blanket around herself and the baby, she stepped outside and closed the door. Using her own magnetic keycard, she unlocked the door without a problem.

The woman closed the door again and looked at

Lewis, pointing to the card in his hands. Lewis understood, but when he inserted his keycard, the door wouldn’t budge.

“Ma chambre,” said the young woman, smiling.

“I still don’t understand,” Lewis muttered.

Just then, a bright red bird landed on Courtney’s suitcase. It was Octave, the magical cardinal who watched over Mount Christmas. Since the bird spoke several languages, he offered to translate.

With Octave’s help, the French woman

introduced herself as Sandrine. She explained that when she heard a car pull up outside, she thought it was her husband, Laurent, who’d gone to buy milk. This had been their room for the last three days, she added.

Lewis and Courtney confirmed that they’d also been assigned to room B-8. Perhaps the motel had made a mistake and rented the room twice. Leaving the luggage at the door, the group headed to the reception desk to find out what was going on.

“B-8?” the clerk said incredulously after Lewis explained the

problem. “Sir, I think you misunderstood. Your room is D-8.”

Embarrassed, the couple apologized to Sandrine, who laughed and said it wasn’t a big deal. They thanked Octave for his help and returned to B-8.

Sandrine waved from the door as Lewis and Courtney got back in their car and drove over to the right room.

The next day, the couple headed to the retirement home where Courtney’s grandmother lived. They found her playing cards with another elderly woman, a young man holding a baby and… Sandrine!

A misunderstanding at the motel Christmas greeting from Cathay Wagantall, MP

As your Member of Parliament for Yorkton – Melville, I wish you a Merry Christmas!

As I write this Christmas greeting, I am looking forward to returning home for special moments with nearby family before travelling to see our children and grandchildren over the holiday season.

It is hard to believe that this will be the eighth Christmas for me as your Member of Parliament. The past three years presented greater challenges for everyone hoping to reconnect over the Christmas season with family and friends who live far away – or just felt far away, despite living down the block or across

Surprised, the French woman greeted the couple and explained to her husband that these were the people she’d met the day before.

“What a coincidence that our grandmothers are friends,” exclaimed Laurent, who spoke English since his grandmother, whom he’d come to visit, grew up in the area.

“Wow, what are the chances?” Courtney shook her head in wonder.

The newcomers joined the group, and they all enjoyed each other’s company so much that they decided to celebrate Christmas together.

the farmyard.

What a blessing it is to re-engage in those moments with renewed thankfulness: going caroling at local care homes and hospitals to lift the hearts of those w ho are elderly or ill, as well as those who provide their care; buying, making,

Good Tidings

Remembering the reason for the season

BY GWEN REILKOFF

FOR WESTMINSTER MEMORIAL UNITED CHURCH

There is a buzz in the air. Maybe you can feel it. As the song states, “In the air, there’s a feeling of Christmas.”

It permeates everything at this time of year. This is the time of year when nostalgia runs deep and nobody dares act like a Scrooge. Christmas is indeed a very special time.

During this Christmas season, it is easy to forget what is important. In fact, there is little mention made in our media, of the real reason for the season. Instead, we are bombarded with shopping ads depicting the perfect gifts, the perfect family situations, the perfect cooking and baking, the perfect homes, the perfect clothes. There is a lot of pressure to be perfect at this time of year. But, let’s face it, life isn’t perfect, and we need to, at times like Christmas, not put so much stress on ourselves.

Life is more like the Christmas pageant that happened in a certain church when a youth group was performing the manger scene:

Joseph and Mary and all the other characters were ready and in their places. They did their parts with seriousness and commitment, looking as pious as they possibly could.

And then it came time for the shepherds to enter and they proceeded to the altar steps where Mary and Joseph looked earnestly at the straw which contained a single lightbulb that played the part of the glowing star.

With his back to the congregation, one of the shepherds said to the little boy playing Joseph in a very loud

whisper for all to hear, “Well, Joe, when you gonna pass out the cigars?”

The solemn spell of that occasion was not simply broken by his remark, it exploded.

Mary and Joseph’s cover was completely destroyed as it became impossible to hold back the bursts of laughter.

The chief angel, standing on a chair behind them shook so hard in laughter, that she fell off her chair and took the curtain backdrop and all the rest of the props down with her. She just kept rolling around on the floor, holding her stomach because she was laughing so hard. The whole set was in shambles.

Amazingly, the only thing that did not go to pieces was that lightbulb in the manger. It never stopped shining. The symbolism was not lost on the audience as that lightbulb shining on baby Jesus, represented the light of the world. A beacon to us, when our lives are less than perfect and we look to our faith in God to see us through.

The true meaning of Christmas, is not found in perfection, not in the wrappings, but in the gift of Jesus.

Christmas is that one time of year when many make an extra effort to find real meaning, to find real joy, to find real peace in their lives. Jesus, is our living, breathing sign of the love that God has for each of us. This is when God sent out a letter of cosmic proportions. This is when God entered the world, fully God and fully human.

Christmas is the living promise that we are never, ever alone.

No matter where we are in life, no matter what condition we find ourselves in, no matter how far we might stray, God will continue to pursue.

Take time this Christmas to look into the heart of God, to fully experience His love. For it is a love that never stops shining!

Best wishes from Westminster Memorial United for a wonderful Christmas and good health and happiness in the new year!

The Wonder of It All!—Birth of Jesus

BY REV. STEPHEN RUTEN PARKLAND EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH, KAMSACK

What happened over 2,000 years ago relates intimately to us today, and also opens up possibilities for us. The Person born can bring joy to you today, stir true worship in you, and points us to God’s written Word that helps us make sense of things.

Take joy, for example.

The birth of Jesus meant joy for all people of the earth! The angel announced to shepherds: “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Saviour... born today in Bethlehem!” (Luke 2:10-11, NLT). People are designed for joyful relationship with God, and they get it through Jesus. The fruit of a relationship with Jesus is joy through the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22). I have that joy—do you?

Jesus’ birth pulls our worship in the right direction. Humans have a natural bent to worship something—something false, if they don’t worship what is true. Take a man who is obsessed with money. Or take the most terrifying and cruel tyrant you can think of, and you’ll find he matches the description of Habakkuk 1:11, “Guilty people, whose own strength is their god.” For some, they themselves are their own god.

Every angel in the universe worshiped the newborn baby Jesus, we learn from Hebrews 1:6. The Wise Men from the East also came to worship Him (Matthew 2:2). The fact that Jesus received worship from people and angels shows: He is God, and is to be worshipped and served. We’re doing what we were created for when we worship Jesus.

Jesus’ mother was warned ahead of time: Although this baby would bring great joy, there would also be great sorrow. Luke 2:28-35 tells us what the old man Simeon did with the Newborn. Simeon “took the child in his arms and praised God, saying, ‘Sovereign Lord... I have seen your salvation... He is a light to reveal God to the nations...’” Simeon “said to Mary, the baby’s mother, ‘This child is destined to cause many... to fall, and many... to rise... Many will oppose Him... And a sword will pierce your very soul.”

She knew ahead of time that the very child that brought such joy to His mother’s heart would cause her to be pierced with the deepest sorrow—one day over 30 years in the future when she would watch Him suffer and die. Over 450 Bible verses in the Old Testament, by one count,

Christmas greeting from Cathay Wagantall, MP

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7 and wrapping gifts; cooking, baking, cleaning and decorating; waking Christmas morning to early risers that normally do

not want to get out of bed. Perhaps you, like me, are acutely aware of the special traditions and experiences we tell ourselves

we will never take for granted again. Perhaps you, like me, realize that saying, “I love you,” “I appreciate you,” perhaps

Celebrate...

To our Customers and Friends we wish, The gift of love The gift of peace The gift of happiness... at Christmas and for the coming year.

Pelly, SK 306.595.4600 email: milleragencies@sasktel.net

prophesied things about Jesus. Seven hundred years before Jesus was born, Isaiah prophesied, “He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on Him” (Isaiah 53:5). Isaiah was making sense of Jesus’ sufferings hundreds of years before Jesus even showed up. Why did He suffer and die? For us! For our sins!

The Bible, God’s Word, is like a light helping us make sense of the most important things of life. “The entrance of your words gives light— it gives understanding to the simple” (Psalm 119:130). It shines most on Jesus, and on what He did. He said, “I am the light of the world” (John 8:12).

What Jesus did has changed my life. He’s given me joy, directed my worship, and given me light.

The wonder of it all!

even, “I’m sorry, please forgive me,” is the best gift one can provide to those who are yearning to hear those words couched in an 18-second hug. I am told that is the minimum time needed for a hug to have its maximum impact – truly!

Christmas is the perfect time for hope, reflection, and celebration. I hope your home will be filled with these things and more. For those who recognize the birth of Christ as the source of hope for the world, I share the following Words of Scripture that give me hope as I seek to do my best to represent all those who call Yorkton–Melville home:

“For to us a child is born, to us a Son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6-7

the tradition of giving, the beauty of the season and a New Year of peace and happiness

Memories of Christmas

Christmas tree lit with electric lights

Velvet Clark, a resident of the Kamsack Nursing Home, said that when she had started attending school, her family had no electric power at their house.

“I remember we had visited someone who had a generator which was used to light the lights on their Christmas tree,” Clark said, adding that later her father had come into the living room of their home with a battery which was connected to a strand of electric lights.

“We had lights on our tree,” she said. “It was very special.”

Reflecting on Christmases past, Clark

was reminded of the days when Christmas cards were sent and received and hung up in the living room. She recalled enjoying the Irondael country school Christmas concerts

“I was the bad guy in the Christmas play”

Asked to remember Christmases in his past, Walter Dubasoff, a resident of the Kamsack Nursing Home, said that he had attended Riversdale country school located about eight miles south of Kamsack.

“We had Christmas concerts every year,” he said, explaining that everyone would gather with their parents for the concerts and bags of candies would be distributed for the children.

In one Christmas play Dubasoff said he portrayed Albert Johnson, who was known as the Mad Trapper of Rat River.

Johnson had been a fugitive whose actions stemmed from a trapping dispute that eventually sparked a huge manhunt in the Northwest Territories and Yukon which became a “media circus” as he evaded capture until 1932.

“I was the bad guy in the Christmas play,” Dubasoff said, laughing.

and remembers one year having been taken to Kamsack where she saw Santa Claus with reindeer in a parade.

“Until I was nine, we were only three kids in the family, and we always got together with grandma and grandpa,” she said, remembering one Christmas when as she was waiting to see Santa Claus, she had looked out of a window and saw Santa going into the Grants’ house next door.

“And I saw his skin, his face wasn’t covered,” she said. “So I knew there was a Santa Claus.

“Getting together with friends and family,” was always wonderful at Christmas.

Christmas was big family get-togethers and when the “kids came home”

As a youngster Christmas was enjoyed when aunts, uncles and cousins would get together, and later when “the kids came home,” said Jean Koreluk, a resident of Eaglestone Lodge.

“We used to have big suppers and we’d talk and sing Christmas carols,” Koreluk said of Christmases when she was a child.

She said she

A big penny from her grandfather made her think she was rich

“Growing up, we didn’t have much,” said Mary Welykholowa, a resident of Eaglestone Lodge. “But one year, my grandpa gave me a big penny and I thought I was rich.”

She said that although the family was not well off and they couldn’t afford much, one year when she was about eight, and her sister about five, her parents had bought her sister and her a Shirley Temple doll, a children’s table and chair set and Popeye dishes to go on the table.

The family had moved from the farm into town

remembers fondly the MacGillvray school concerts when a choir would sing, gifts were given, and one year she got a doll as a present at the concert.

As an adult, Christmases became special when all four of her children were able to make it home for the holiday.

“I expect to see all four of them this year,” she said, explaining that her son Stephen, who is with the Canadian Navy, is expected home from Dec.

to Jan. 14 and she plans to be visiting with her daughter in Saskatoon.

“We had our own milk and cream from that cow,” she said, recalling big Christmas dinners with turkey and cabbage rolls.

She fondly recalls all the Christmas preparations, including making of cabbage rolls, cheese blintzes and perogies.

when she was still a child and she remembers the family had a cow while it was still permitted to have one in town.

“When we were with our children, it was always a big do at Christmas time at the lake, and then our children had their own families and brought them,” she said, remembering that “as long as there was a comforter and a pillow, we had people sleeping all over the floor.”

“I miss that most of all.”

Merry Christmas from our Family Care Team at Andrychuk Funeral Home.

www.andrychukfuneralhome.com

May the blessings from above shine on you with peace and love this holiday season.

spirit

love

With warm and friendly wishes for a Merry Christmas and a bright and happy New Year

Velvet Clark

Walter Dubasoff

Jean Koreluk

5

Mary Welykholowa

Memories of Christmas

Babies’ booties found under the Christmas tree

“When the kids were small, as soon as the Sears Christmas catalogue came out, I was shopping,” said Barbara Hawryluk, a resident of the Kamsack Nursing Home.

Recalling past Christmases, Hawryluk explained that she did a lot of baking for the holidays, and she was reminded of the year that that her son Trevor, accompanied by Lyle Boychuk, had discovered the baking that had been hidden away in the freezer.

“I used to make all kinds of goodies,” she said, listing shortbread, “skuffles” and Christmas cakes.

“The boys ate all mine and then went to Janice Boychuk’s and cleaned her out too.”

Hawryluk said she had

to bake all the stuff again.

“I remember that Norman was Santa for people for a number of years,” she said of her late husband.

“Growing up, I lived in Winnipeg,” she said, describing her parents’ apartment where at Christmas the living room was converted into the dining room where the whole family gathered.

An only child, Hawryluk remembered the one Christmas when she was 10 years old, she had discovered a set of babies’ booties under the tree and was told that the booties would belong to her baby sister that was due in April.

“I could hardly wait for the baby to arrive.”

Hawryluk remembers that in Winnipeg the annual Christmas parade down Salter Avenue was

a “big thing, much better than the parade is now.”

She recalls school Christmas concerts and being in plays and the choir, and later taking her children around the community to see all the Christmas lights.

Christmases celebrated in London, Uganda and Kamsack

Reflecting on Christmases past, Martin Cash can think of growing up in London, England as bombs fell all around during the Second World War, his years teaching in Uganda and Christmases celebrated in Kamsack since his arrival in 1968.

A resident of the Kamsack Nursing Home, Cash was born and raised in London. His father had come from a large family and attempted to keep the Anglican Christmas traditions, during the war, in spite of the difficulty.

He said that although as a child he had been evacuated out of London to a relative’s home in Wales, he and other members of the family returned to the

“So much of my Christmases has been around music”

“So much of my Christmases has been around music,” said Sylvia Negraeff of Pelly just before beginning to play recently for the residents of Eaglestone Lodge in Kamsack.

“My husband Peter and I loved it,” she said, explaining that she enjoyed using music to help make people happy.

Negraeff, a retired school teacher, recalled enjoying her grandchildren as they baked cookies to take to seniors.

“That teaches kids so much,” she said. “Christmas is not for getting, it’s for giving.

“Music has been an

city for Christmas.

“The food was basically the same as here, only rather than turkey, we had chicken,” he said, explaining that the food and presents had been toned down considerably during the war.

“No one had money to spare,” he said.

“I remember receiving some useful ties from my aunts, and a diary notebook,” he said, laughing.

“My father’s family were all good singers and an uncle was a choir master, so we all had to sing. It was quite pleasant.”

As an adult, he was employed in an Anglicanstyle boys’ school in Uganda and at Christmas many of the boys were not able to travel home, so the celebration was held at the school.

As she performed with guitar in hand at Eaglestone Lodge recently, Sylvia Negraeff of Pelly talked about her memories of Christmas. She was accompanied by Roger Abrahamson and Sylvia Hornibrooke.

important part of my life and I enjoyed taking my music students to seniors’ homes at Christmas, as well as to carol festivals.

“We have a lot of fun,” she said, introducing

Roger Abrahamson as “the best singer,” and Sylvia Hornibrooke, who helps her with the staging of performances at Eaglestone and the nursing home.

Christmas, which were held in order “to keep the boys in line.”

He had worked in Uganda for five years before coming to Canada and he said that for his last Christmas in Africa, he, his wife and infant daughter went on an ocean cruise from Mombasa, Kenya to Durban, South Africa, and the ship was their floating hotel.

“That was a different experience,” he said.

“At Christmas there was much more food to eat,” he said, mentioning meats, which were a luxury, in addition to the basic foods, including a type of plantain, peanut sauce and “lots of fruit.”

He said he remembers the drumming and the organized games at

Arriving in Canada in 1968 when he began teaching at the high school, Cash said that Christmases were similar to what he had experienced in England.

“Here, we became friends of the Bishops, who were strong Anglicans and we continued our English Anglican traditions.”

Barb Hawryluk

Martin Cash

Memories of Christmas

Coal is what one gets when they’ve been “piggish”

Winnifred (Winnie) Koroluk remembers a Christmas lesson taught by her father when she was “just little.”

A resident of Eaglestone Lodge, Koroluk said that one Christmas Eve, a pair of her father’s overalls had been hung alongside their stockings and when they checked, the overalls contained lumps of coal.

“That’s what you get when you’re piggish,” her father had told them as a lesson. “If you’re going to be piggish, that’s what you get.

“Mother used to decorate the most gorgeous Christmas trees,” she said, explaining that it would take her a week to string the lights and hang the ornaments.

“Christmas was family: Mom and Dad and Grandfather and the kids,”

she said, mentioning the Christmas dinners of turkey or chickens.

“They were lovely meals. Everything was just great: very happy times.”

She remembers the “nice” Christmas concerts at the

Community Hall in Kamsack and “Santa always came.” She liked singing, both as a soloist and with the choir, and enjoyed the gifts that were distributed, which included a bag containing a Japanese orange, nuts and candy.

Later, as an employee of Eaton’s in Kamsack, Koroluk said that each year the business would get large orders from the schools, and the Eaton’s personal shopper would collect the gifts, so many for boys and girls of such and such ages, box them up and send them to Kamsack, where Paul Paluck would deliver the boxes to the schools.

“The pre-Christmas workload was heavy, from the time the Eaton’s Wishbook was delivered at the end of October,” she said. “But it was good. The days fly by when you’re busy.”

Twelve meatless dishes and jumping over hay on fire Ellie Kilmister, who said that her fellow nursing students had given her the name “Ellie” as a contraction of Elizabeth, recalls that Christmas Eve at her home consisted of a large dinner comprised of 12 meatless dishes.

A resident of Eaglestone Lodge, Kilmister, who was raised on a farm north of Stenen in a family of 10 children, listed boiled wheat, borscht with no cream, two kinds of cabbage rolls, perogies and stewed dry fruit for dessert as being among the 12 dishes.

She said her father had brought hay into the house that was spread on the floor at Christmas, but then after the family acquired a rug for the living room, instead of hay, only a sheaf of wheat was brought in.

“Mom and Dad sang and we’d go to church in Sturgis,” she said. “We’d hang stockings on the tree that contained homemade decorations and we’d receive a Japanese orange, candy, peanuts

and hazelnuts.

“We never asked for anything and we rarely got toys,” she said, explaining that aunts and uncles would arrive for a big turkey dinner on Christmas Day.

“On Boxing Day, Dad would pick up the hay, take it outside and light it. If you managed to jump over the fire, you’d have good luck all year long.”

Here’s hoping your holiday is blessed with the perfect combination of peace, harmony and joy. Thanks for making us feel so at home here. We look forward to seeing you again next year.

Reeve: Kim Pennell

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

RM of St. Philips No. 301

Gilles Comeault, Brian Federation, Ron Sorrell, Bernie Mosiuk, Ron Sernowski, Tricia Shankowsky, Greg Savenkoff, Ken Frampton and Wes Lylyk.

RM of St. Philips No. 301

Councillors: Amanda Burback, Vern Bowes, Craig Salahub, Dale Schwartz, Glen Becenko, Murray Horkoff

Road Crew: Michael Barker, Russell Rauckman

Administrator: Sherry Guenther Reeve, Council and Staff

LAM’S RESTAURANT Kamsack,

SK

Merry Christmas

To our friends and customers, our warmest wishes for a joyous holiday season and a New Year filled with peace and happiness.

Winnie Koroluk

Ellie Kilmister

A marriage on the mountain

BY SARAH BEAUREGARD AND JOHANNIE DUFOUR / TRANSLATED BY KATYA TEAGUE

Once upon a time, in the town of Mount Christmas, an extravagant wedding was set to take place at the top of the picturesque mountain named after the town. The happy couple, Tatiana and Viktor, both had children from previous relationships, and

they were excited to officially unite their families. Plus, they had a baby on the way!

The lovebirds had decided to get married just before Christmas. They wanted to exchange vows on the same day and at the same place where they’d first met a few years earlier. Back then, they never would have guessed that a family ski trip would lead to

an exciting new chapter in all of their lives.

With her hands resting on her pregnant belly, Tatiana gazed fondly at Viktor. Tears ran down his cheeks as he watched the beautiful bride walk down the aisle, which was lined with intricately carved ice flowers. She looked like a fairytale princess in her long, flowing cape and immaculate white dress.

The ceremony went smoothly until it was time to exchange the rings. Viktor’s son, Axel, had the rings but he was nowhere to be found. Worried, the officiant asked guests if anyone had seen the little boy. No one knew where he’d vanished to, so the officiant called out to him using the microphone.

“Axel, it’s your turn! We’re all waiting for you. Don’t be shy.”

Suddenly, Axel appeared. He had a defeated look on his face, his eyes were red and his clothes were in disarray. He hurried over to his father, who knelt down beside him.

“Dad, I… I… I dropped the rings during the cable car ride by accident,” the

young boy admitted. “I looked everywhere, but I couldn’t find them in the snow. I’m so sorry!”

“You should have said something earlier,” Viktor replied. “Don’t worry, we’ll find them. With all of us looking, it’ll be easy. Like a game!”

Viktor was always optimistic. He turned to the audience and challenged them to find the wedding rings, which were held together with a white satin ribbon. Whoever found them first would earn an extra slice of wedding cake!

Guests of all ages scoured the area below the cable car in search of the missing rings. After nearly an hour, there was still no sign of the je welry, and the group was getting discouraged.

What they didn’t know is that Octave, the magical cardinal who never missed a chance to help the residents of Mount Christmas, had started his own search. Back and forth, he flew over the area

until he finally noticed a glitter of gold in the branches of a spruce tree. It was the rings!

He carefully grabbed them with his talons and flew to the top of the mountain. No one could believe their eyes when the bird dropped the rings at the officiant’s feet.

“It’s a miracle,” the man cried out. “Octave

has saved the day!”

Everyone clapped and cheered, and the ceremony resumed. It was one of the most moving weddings that anyone in Mount Christmas had ever seen. Three weeks later, Tatiana and Viktor’s daughter was born. The couple decided to name the baby Octavia, in recognition of the kind, heroic bird.

Memories of Christmas

Everyone took turns being Santa Claus

Christmas was always a happy time, said Eileen Chutskoff, a temporary resident at Eaglestone Lodge.

“We always had a visit from Santa Claus, and all the kids, even me one year, took turns being Santa,” she said, recalling the Christmas dinners that included turkey, cabbage rolls and perogies.

“We always had shortbread, Christmas cakes and all kinds of squares,” she said, looking forward to this year’s Christmas

when she expects a gathering of about 15 family members.

Eileen Chutskoff

Trade show brings Christmas spirit to Togo

Christmas Wishes

Here’s hoping you and your family enjoy a merry, old-fashioned Christmas. May the spirit and traditions of the season fill your home with an air of peace and love during this magical time of year. With best wishes, we thank you for

Selling soups and sandwiches on behalf of the Silver Threads centre during the Togo trade show were Al Andrews of Togo and Noreen Boyd of Runnymede.

Loretta Erhardt of Togo sold Mō ldere products which, made by a “clean living company,” are for “active joints” and help relieve joint pain.

Lynette Leis of Yorkton sold Christmas crafts and treats at the Togo trade show.

Dianne Maloney of Yorkton, who uses recycled sweaters and blankets to create mittens, sold her hand-warming products at the Togo trade show.

Meagan Strauss of Togo, who owns Alchemist ʼs Circle Gifts, tended a booth of beautiful rocks and semiprecious stones.

Nancy Weinhandl sold a collection of artwork created from recycled wood that she calls I Used to Be.

A collection of handmade sewn products were sold by Jackie Donahue of Canora.

Noella Dube of Roblin sold baked goods as well as Christmas wreaths and decorations. Brenda Eisner of Togo sold Mary Kay products.

Christine Friesen of Bordertown Milling Company sold organic wheat and rye flours which were grown, milled and packaged on her farm located about three miles south of Togo.

Betty Zrudlo of the Prairie Garlic Farm at Stornoway, sold fresh garlic as well as jellies, pickles and powders made from the garlic grown and harvested on her farm.

David Hanlin of Lake of the Prairies, Man., sold a collection of stained glass products, including garden ornaments that he created. Babiesʼ booties, “scrunchies,” sun hats, bags and children ʼs jumpers, all sewn by hand, were sold by Holly Hart of Roblin at her table entitled Sewn by Hart.

Trade show brings Christmas spirit to Togo

Kara Becker of Yorkton sold Tiber River products, which are environmentallyfriendly bath, body and home products that “create happiness naturally.”

Angela Lockhart of Regina sold Zyia Active wear at the Togo trade show.

Kerry Oʼ Donnell of Calder, accompanied by her daughter Kaitlyn Kochanowski, tended a booth entitled Sudz and Such which

Sylvia Hanlin of Lake of the Prairies, Man., sold a collection of framed “scratch art” that she made.

All kinds of holiday goodies in Kamsack

Warm Warm Warm Warm Greetings Greetings Greetings Greetings Greetings

Here’s hoping you and yours enjoy a really cool holiday! We’re grateful for your warm reception this past year.

Management, families & staff

Penguin Refrigeration Ltd.

Canora - 563-5527 Yorkton - 782-1577

May the spirit of Christmas bring you

Peace and Joy. Peace and

Joy.

Christmas.

Jt thi f dthi

Just as the wise men found their way on that first Christmas, may you and your loved ones be guided by the light of His love this holiday season, and evermore. It’s been a privilege and a pleasure to serve you this past year.

Reagan Foster, Jeremi & Nicole Korpusik, Dana Nystedt and Cally Severson Main Street, Norquay

Welma Bartel of Preeceville sold jewelry she makes using crystals and gems at the Craft and Multicultural event held at the OCC Hall in Kamsack Nov. 27

Alva Beauchamp sold a collection of handmade tote bags at her table entitled A Bag for All Reasons at the Craft and Multicultural event in Kamsack.

Natural soaps and German baking were sold by Sonja Bedrich of Tadmore at Kamsack Nov. 27.

Lynn Coupland, who operates Lynn ʼ s Plants and Things Garden Centre in Benito, had a booth at the Kamsack Craft and Multicultural event.

Darcie Park of Canora operated a table entitled Darcieʼs Bohemian Artsody at the Craft and Multicultural event in Kamsack.

Barb McIvor and Adele Roney of Churchbridge sold chocolates and items made with a sublimation process at their Ladybug Emporium at Kamsack Nov. 27

Loressa McLeod of Yorkton, operating a booth entitled “Y ʼ All Glow Too,” sold stones and jewelry at the Kamsack Craft and Multicultural event.

Annie Morenos of Kamsack sold six different types of Southeast Asian foods at the Craft and Multicultural event in Kamsack.

Pam Schmuck sold Scentsy products at Kamsack Nov. 27.

Lorna Musqua of Keeseekoose First Nation, who enjoys making decorative Christmas wreaths, sold a collection of them at the Craft and Multicultural event.

Terra Pohl of Swan River, who operates the Share Happy Shop based in Swan River, sold comfortable apparel and blankets at the Kamsack Craft and Multicultural event.

Shelley Polding of Binscarth, Man. sold baking and epoxy products at the Kamsack craft event Nov. 27. She shared a booth with her daughter Melanie of Langenburg, who was not available for the photo.

Christmas 2022, what a ride!

“Whew, what a year!” Santa Claus exclaimed as his elves gathered in Santa’s workshop for their pre-Christmas meeting. They had all tested negative for COVID-19 and were up to date on their shots, but just to be safe they were all wearing masks. Santa was pretty sure that he, his wife and all the elves would be COVID-free, as they had spent the whole year at the North Pole in ice-olation. The reindeer were pastured on the rich grasses in Northern Saskatchewan, close to the North Pole. Santa checked on his reindeer every day, making sure they were in good shape, especially his favourite Rudolph. The reindeer herders had tried a new training method with the herd this year. Each reindeer pulled a herder who was wearing downhill skis. They would do daily runs alternating long and short trips to build the stamina and speed they would need for Christmas Eve.

On the large back wall in Santa’s workshop, a blackboard is divided down the middle with a white chalk line. One section says WORKED and the other, CHANGE. Santa wants his elves’ input on

ideas for improvements. Mrs. Claus stands by the blackboard with her white chalk writing down the comments.

They had barely been able to finish last year’s run before the sun came up. One elf suggested that they run reindeers in pairs, but side-by-side on each sleigh, which would be safer in case of a sudden stop. If one is behind the other when that happens, the rear reindeer sometimes accidentally “gooses” the lead, causing it to jump forward and upset the rig. A two-span setup with the reindeer running side-by-side would be safer and speed up the delivery process.

In the meantime, all the elves except the reindeer trainers, were gathered in Santa’s workshop sorting through gifts donated by various toy manufacturers. But the donations are short of Santa’s requirements. The elves wrapping crew sits next to the sorting table, wrapping presents while listening to rap music.

Other elves are busy making toys or placing toys in various big bags. The gifts are gender neutral and age sensitive. The elves have a map with names of disbelievers

Observations

KAARE ASKILDT

clearly marked because those who don’t believe in Santa do not get a visit. The elves are volunteer contractors, in fact you might call them elf employed.

Santa Claus divided the earth into eight regions again this year and added eight more reindeer to the racing pool, so that he can run two reindeer per sleigh. Dasher and Passer pull the starting sleigh followed by Dancer and Splendor, Prancer and Scamper, Vixen and Dixen, Comet and Star, Cupid and Love, Donner and Thor. Bringing up the rear are Blixen and Flash. It is a new setup and Santa is a little concerned with the newbies, but he is optimistic that it will all work out.

The nisse driving the sleighs will have upgraded GPS transceivers, which would send electronic pulses back to Santa’s big electronic world map. The blinking dots on the map

tell Santa exactly where the various nisse are at any time. But unbeknownst to Santa, his nemesis, the devilish Krampus, had been able to hack into Santa’s GPS system and is working on ways to make sure Christmas does not happen this year.

Hermey, one of Santa’s most trusted elves and a tech specialist, is checking to make sure all electronics are working as they should. That’s when he discovers an anomaly which makes him suspicious, so he inserts a spy bot to hunt down intruders. He discovers malware that would be triggered when Santa gives the “go” signal to all the elves. The malware would mess up the GPS signals, making it look as if the elves never left the North Pole.

Hermey contacts top electronics experts all over the world and asks them for assistance. While the other elves were busy with their various chores, Hermey and his crew

work on restoring the GPS system. They capture the malware and isolate it. Then they run another exploring bot into the system to see if there are other surprises. They find a carefully hidden evil troll bot, set to kill the GPS system if the first malware is discovered and isolated. It takes some time, but with great jubilation Hermey and his crew declared the system safe just before noon on Christmas Eve. All the sleighs are loaded and ready to go.

Before they leave, Santa climbs up on the stage and addresses the elves. He thanks them for the great job they have done with a special thank you to Hermey. Santa promises the elves that Mrs. Claus is preparing a scrumptious meal for them to enjoy when all the gifts have been delivered. The elf heading to Canada is asked to pay special attention to Casey, Leon and Madeline, as well as the Tungland families, especially little Ana and great-grandma Marion. The Scandinavian elf will pay special attention to Pernille, Nadia and Aurora in Norway and Natalie in Sweden. Happy, the US elf will pay special attention to the Bolden Family, Bella, Kristin and Tim

After spending the year isolated at the North Pole, Santa was pretty sure that he, his wife and the elves would be COVID-free for Christmas.

in Andover, Minnesota. Santa reminds the elves that the rules are the same as last year.

“I have provided a copy on your onboard computers, so you can refer to them if in doubt. If you can’t land on the roof and enter through the chimney, then land in the yard or on the road. Enter through the back door if it is a house, or the suite door if it is an apartment building. Whatever you do, you must do it with stealth so as not to awaken anybody, especially the children. If you encounter any adults still awake, do not interact with them, or accept any Akevitt or rum-laced eggnog. This

As the Christmas season approaches, we recall with pleasure, all the great folks we’ve had the privilege to know and serve this past year, and wish you all the very merriest holiday season ever!

A heartfelt thanks to all our friends, whether far or near, we wish you a Merry Christmas, and a wonderful new year!

Kam-Crete Ltd. and Broda Group LP

Happy holidays from our family to yours

Marie, Gordie & Barb, Rusty & Sharon, Murry & Cheryl, Management and Staff

Christmas 2022, what a ride!

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18

is important because I don’t want to have to bail any of you out of the drunk tank like I had to a couple of years ago. Eat the cookies set out for you but leave the eggnog or milk alone. Just remember, if you put your forefinger along the right side of your nose, people won’t remember that they saw you and if you invert your hat inside out from red to grey, you become invisible. Leave the presents and get out.”

As the elves take off, Krampus discovers that all his malware has been neutralized and he resorts to a more direct approach. He hitches up his sleigh to Chaos and Strife, his two fastest reindeer, and chases after Fraggle who is driving Donner and Thor. Santa picks up Krampus on his radar and sees that he is chasing Fraggle. He quickly hitches Rudolph up to his slim racing sleigh and chases after Krampus. Just as Krampus is about to cut off Fraggle, Santa arrives with Rudolph to stop him. Santa gets close to Krampus’ sleigh and throws a miniature electronic interference unit into Krampus’ open coat pocket. Rudolph sees his chance to disconnect Krampus’ sleigh from Chaos and Strife by wrecking the tow bars with his antlers. That causes Krampus to drop out of the sky with Chaos and Strife chasing after him. Santa races back to the North Pole to monitor his elves’ progress.

All the elves deliver the presents unseen and on time. There were some tense moments when the elf Gerbert driving Dasher and Splendor was delivering the gifts in the Ukraine and Russia. But Gerbert was able to find all the children, even the orphans, making them all happy despite the armed conflict going on around them.

Krampus had recovered his sleigh and steered it down to his laboratory where he landed with a big crash. He slowly got up and started planning on other ways to mess up Christmas. He booted up his computer to search the Internet for ideas, but as soon as he opened a search engine, the miniature device from Santa was activated and crashed the system permanently. Krampus decided to wait until next year, which would give him a lot of time to come up with another evil plan.

The worldwide distribution of gifts was completed well before the sun rose for Christmas Day. All the reindeer were groomed and put back in their pasture where a special serving of oats was waiting for them as a thank you for a job well done. Santa had sent out invitations to all the elves around the world to come and help him celebrate Christmas with a dinner and dance on Christmas Day.

The elves under Mrs. Claus’ supervision prepared scrumptious

In preparation for the Christmas Eve journey, the reindeer had been pastured on the rich grasses of northern Saskatchewan.

roasted turkeys with all the trimmings. For dessert, they served the traditional caramel pudding. The elf Puritan was in charge of distilling the delicious Mossavitt from a mash of reindeer moss grown only on the North Pole. It was chilled and served in small hand carved wooden cups. Puritan made what he called a reindeer ale, but he refused to divulge the ingredients, saying it was a secret recipe.

After the delicious meal, Eskel took out his mouth harp and started to play. Gudbrand joined him with his Hardanger fiddle, and Geir had brought his lure -- a wooden trumpet. They were accompanied by Terje on his set of timpani drums made from reindeer hide. They played all

the traditional tunes, and everyone danced all night long. Santa and Mrs. Claus got up from their chairs and started

dancing. The others followed suit and pretty soon they were doing the North Pole version of the Virginia Reel . It was a

merry gathering and as always, Christmas was rich with traditions, and the merry guests danced the night away.

Happy Holidays

members a Merry Christmas & Prosperous New Year!

The long and the short of it is that we want you to enjoy everything the season has to offer. Hats off to all of you for making our year such a pleasure! We are proud to supply you with all your petroleum needs.